Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 24 May 2022
543. Deputy Pauline Tully asked the Minister for Justice the number of Garda public order unit vans attached to the Cavan-Monaghan Garda division as of 31 December 2020 and 16 May 2022, in tabular form. [26167/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Deputy will be aware that, under the Garda Síochána Act 2005 (as amended), the Garda Commissioner is responsible for the management and administration of An Garda Síochána. The allocation of Garda resources is a matter for the Commissioner, in light of identified operational demands. As Minister, I have no role in these independent functions. I am assured, however, that Garda management keeps the distribution of resources under continual review in the context of crime trends and policing priorities, to ensure their optimum use.
Budget 2022 provides in excess of an unprecedented €2 billion for An Garda Síochána, of which I am informed that €12m has been allocated for investment in the Garda fleet, which will mean more high visibility policing in our towns and cities.
I am informed by the Garda authorities that there were 30 vehicles assigned to the Garda public order unit on the 19 May 2022. I am further advised that the allocation of these vehicles is monitored and reviewed on a continual basis to ensure the best match with operational requirements.
I am advised that no public order vans were assigned to Cavan/Monaghan Division at 31 December 2020 and 19 May 2022. However, I understand that public order vans are issued as a regional resource and can be moved throughout Divisions as required.
The Deputy may also wish to be aware that An Garda Síochána publish information on Garda fleet, including a Divisional/District monthly breakdown, on their website at: www.garda.ie/en/about-us/our-departments/finance-services/finance-fleet-management.html.
